In 1970, ninety percent of animals admitted to shelters in the United States were euthanized. By 2021, sixty one percent of shelter animals were adopted out into permanent homes, an enormous statistical shift. This fundamental change in American behavior, from euthanasia to adoption, is one of the pillars of the no-kill movement. An animal adopted into a secure home is one that will not be put down.
In spite of this remarkable change in American treatment of homeless animals, far too many dogs, cats, and other creatures are put to death each year. The American Shelter Fund is working to eliminate shelter euthanasia by reducing obstacles to adoption success. These barriers include fear of large dogs, fear of certain breeds, and a lack of training and instruction – not simply for dogs, but for humans who would be willing to adopt if they had confidence in their ability to control a larger animal. For cats, too, the goal is not simply an adoption, but a successful one that does not result in the return of the animal to the shelter and possible euthanasia. Socialization and behavioral improvement are vital to this process, and the Fund provides resources to develop them.
americanshelterfund.org 